Cost of Living in Laclede County, Missouri
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Laclede County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Laclede County ranks #2,215 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 30%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Laclede County, Missouri
Laclede County faces affordability pressure
Laclede County renters spend 18.8% of income on housing, nearly matching the national burden of 18.3% despite lower earnings. Median household income of $50,825 ranks among Missouri's lowest, making every $796 monthly rent feel substantial.
Above-average strain for Missouri residents
Laclede County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.8% significantly exceeds Missouri's state average of 15.6%, placing it among the state's most burdened counties. While rent of $796 approximates the state median, lower incomes intensify the affordability squeeze.
Pricier despite lower regional income
Laclede's $796 rent falls between the cheaper Knox County ($661) and more expensive Jefferson County ($972), but its $50,825 income is among the region's lowest. This mismatch—moderate rent on minimal income—creates significant affordability stress.
Rent eats heavily into small income
Renters spend $796 monthly while homeowners pay $826 from just $50,825 median household income. Housing consumes roughly 19% of pre-tax income—above the 15% comfort threshold—leaving limited flexibility for other necessities.
Compare county options if relocating
If Laclede's housing burden feels tight, nearby Knox and Lewis counties offer lower rents, while Johnson County provides comparable costs with stronger regional economic activity. Before committing, explore neighboring counties where your income might go further or job prospects improve.
Cost of Living Advisory: Laclede County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Laclede County is affordable. The median rent is $796/month against a median household income of $50,825, putting rent at 18.8% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Laclede County pay $796/month on average, compared to $826/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 4%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,840/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $35,400/year. With a median household income of $50,825, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Laclede County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Lafayette County where rent averages $848/month, Laclede County is approximately 6% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Laclede County
Rent Burden
18.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,186
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.5%
of gross income
The median home in Laclede County may be a stretch
Median home value is $158,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,261 vs. your max of $1,186.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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